Los Angeles Rams kicker Greg Zuerlein was a surprising addition to the team's injury report last week. Fortunately, his status for Super Bowl 53 does not appear to be in jeopardy.
Zuerlein had been nursing a foot injury over the past few weeks. According to Charean Williams of Pro Football Talk, head coach Sean McVay says he is good to go.
“He felt good,” McVay said. “He hit the ball well. He hit the kickoffs and his field goals really well. That’s kind of what we expected; that’s what we hoped, and he’ll be ready to go.”
This is certainly an encouraging update for the Rams. Zuerlein had injured his foot during the NFC Championship Game versus the New Orleans Saints. Fortunately, it did not appear to hinder him one bit as he went on to hit two clutch kicks from deep to give Los Angeles the win.
Zuerlein has since been a limited participant in practice. There was plenty of speculation regarding the severity of his injury, however, McVay's comments indicate that it is simply a precaution at this point. Although he has long boasted one of the strongest legs in the NFL, his ability to convert in the clutch has helped take this team to the next level.
There is no question that the Rams will need Zuerlein to be at his best against the New England Patriots. It is safe to assume that Los Angeles may need to settle for points whenever they can. His range will undoubtedly give the Rams an advantage on special teams come Sunday.